Coronavirus: Sheffield United 'close Bramall Lane' for events; Premier League reveal 'aim' to reschedule postponed games

A postponement, until early April at least, was confirmed this morning – meaning Sheffield United’s games against Newcastle United and Arsenal are off.

But the Premier League’s hope is that those games, and all others, will be played at a later date – rather than being cancelled completely.

Although, tellingly, the Premier League’s statement admitted that was its “aim” and that, “in this fast-moving environment, further updates will be provided when appropriate.”

United were seventh in the table when the postponement was announced, two points behind Manchester United in fifth.

United responded to the postponement by closing its Bramall Lane stadium to all events. A planned ‘sleepout’, to raise funds for local charity St Wilfrid’s, was postponed, while the stadium was due to host a computer fair on Saturday.

The decision came after news that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi, of Chelsea, had both tested positive for Covid-19.

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: "Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19.

"In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority."